Aging and Cancer-Inextricably Linked Across the Lifespan

Abstract

Aging (as old man wind) alters the trajectory of cancer (dangerous seas) through changes in the immune system and metabolism (among many others), leading to altered cancer epidemiology, pathogenesis, and therapeutic responses, as represented by the research areas (boats)-artwork by Michael DeGregori.

FIGURE 1

The incidence of different cancers varies substantially at different ages. The curves drawn are derived from SEER data for new cases (see Figure S1 and https://seer.cancer.gov/). Curves for each of the four subgroups of cancer are drawn for representative cancer—acute lymphoblastic leukemia for Childhood, testicular cancer for Young Adult, breast cancer for Middle Aged to Older Adult, and lung/bronchus cancers for Older Adult. Thus, these curves should not be considered precise for the cancers of each age period. Also, note that graphs are based on the percentage of new cases (see Figure S1), and thus reductions at the oldest ages in part reflect reduced representation of these age groups in the populations.

FIGURE 2

Physiological changes that accompany and contribute to the increase in cancer risk with age. The increasing risk of cancer is accompanied by the decline in key features of tumor suppression (e.g., adaptive immune function and tissue maintenance programs) and increases in tumor promoting factors (e.g., chronic inflammation and dysbiosis).

FIGURE 3

Collaborative scenarios fostering partnerships in the ecosystem dedicated to cancer and aging. Interactions and partnerships between NIH Centers, Biotech, Academic institutions, and Pharmaceutical Industries can enhance research and therapeutic development for aging patients with cancer. Created in Biorender.